I recently returned from the World Ride MTB Trip to Bhutan, and it was one of the most meaningful and thoughtfully run travel experiences I’ve had. Bhutan itself is impossible to overstate: staggering landscapes, deeply rooted culture, prayer flags snapping in the wind at high passes, and trails that feel both ancient and wild. The riding that I got to experience was varied, beautiful, and purposeful — long climbs rewarded with technical, grin and giggle-inducing descents that felt fully earned. This is not “manufactured” adventure; it’s the real thing. For prospective attendees, it’s worth noting that this tour is physically and technically demanding. Expect sustained climbing and hike-a-bike at altitude, as well as descents that require solid mountain bike skills and comfort on challenging terrain. As a point of reference, I consider myself to be an advanced-intermediate rider. I feel comfortable at speed on most black diamond trails on my home turf (CO/UT), but generally start with blues in unknown territory. These trails were perfect for me - but maybe a bit much for casual riders. Being well-prepared fitness-wise and honest about your riding ability will make the experience more enjoyable for everyone — including you. On the second day of riding, I had a classic JRA (“just riding along”) crash and was injured, which limited my ability to ride for much of the remainder of the trip. The team at Bhutan Rides went above and beyond to ensure I still had a rich, meaningful experience. They adapted plans, checked in constantly, and made sure I remained included and supported — something that speaks volumes about their values and competence. I’m already looking forward to returning to complete the full riding experience when I’m healed. A few practical tips for future travelers: 1) Get a local SIM card. Even with a global cell plan, service was very limited in many areas. A local SIM makes communication much easier. 2) Research travel insurance options carefully. I used Trawick Travel Insurance, which was recommended through WeTravel. While coverage ultimately worked, it required significant personal follow-up and escalation. I’d encourage future travelers to explore and compare other insurance providers as well, rather than assuming the recommended option is the best fit... don't forget to read the fine print. MTB at elevation is considered to be an 'Adventure Sport' or 'Mountaineering' by some insurance companies and requires supplemental coverage. Overall, this was a beautiful, and deeply rewarding experience. If you’re an experienced rider looking for authentic adventure in one of the most remarkable places on earth — supported by a tour company that truly shows up for its guests — I can’t recommend this trip highly enough.

Pelden is an amazing guide, I was the weakest rider, I'm a true intermediate as some of the trails were advanced and above my abilities, I walked sections or skipped sections which was fine with me. He sussed out our skills the first day we rode and made adjustments accordingly, he also got a younger Bhutanese rider to join us at the back from day 3 of riding. Sometimes I rode the road or skipped rides depending on the difficulty. I was in Bhutan for the experience as much as the riding so I enjoyed the variety of not just riding as I feel I saw more of the country culturally that way. One day I joined Christine at a Mandala making workshop, went to the national museum and made momos which I honestly enjoyed more than another day of riding. I also loved visiting the different areas of Bhutan, seeing the wildlife and culture, going to the monasteries etc. I loved the trip, I loved Bhutan. Pelden and Ayub (the other bike guide) were genuinely nice people, always looking out for us and wanting us to have the best experiences. The drivers were great too. We all got along so well and started hanging out for meals and evening entertainment too. The four of us girls all got along really well too. I would highly recommend this trip for anyone wanting to experience Bhutan and are at minimum an advanced intermediate rider.

This was a great trip! Our guides Christa and Wily and our driver/cook Edgar took care of every detail (and prepared fantastic lunches!). They always made us feel cared for. The riding was varied and fun, and the visits to the chocolate factory and the small coffee farm were interesting and informative. One of our party was delayed due to airline issues and Alex from Old Town Outfitters went above and beyond to make the late arrival as smooth as possible. Old Town and the hotel staff in Antigua were very accommodating re: providing a safe place to store luggage and bikes. Building up our bikes at Old Town Outfitters was a breeze and access to tools helped straighten a couple bent rotors. Allow plenty of time to get to/from GUA airport as traffic is very heavy in the city. Overall, fantastic experience and I would do it again with World Ride and Old Town Outfitters!

We spent 5 incredibly unique and adventurous days with Christa and her team riding on beautiful ridge lines, through gorgeous fields and challenging rivers! I can’t say enough about the warmth and support and food and trip planning. One of the best trips I’ve ever done (and I’ve done a few). World Ride is wonderful! Please support their mission!

Our trip to Peru with World Ride was Fantastic! It exceeded all expectations. The riding was incredible. The accommodations were great. Our guide, Claudia was exceptional. Would highly recommend this trip.